Louisiana
Louisiana has implemented several literacy policies aimed at improving reading proficiency among its students. The state's approach to literacy education focuses on evidence-based instruction, early intervention, and support for struggling readers. One key policy is the Louisiana Student Standards for English Language Arts, which outlines the skills and knowledge that students need to develop in order to be successful readers, including phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
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Louisiana provides training and support for educators in evidence-based literacy practices, such as systematic and explicit instruction and the use of data to inform instruction. The state has established the Louisiana Department of Education's Early Literacy Team to provide guidance and support to educators and promote evidence-based literacy practices.
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Louisiana uses a statewide assessment, the Louisiana Educational Assessment Program (LEAP), to monitor student progress in reading and identify areas where additional support is needed. The state's Response to Intervention (RTI) framework provides a systematic approach to identifying and supporting struggling readers, with tiered levels of intervention based on student needs.
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The Louisiana Department of Education also partners with local organizations and agencies to promote literacy development through initiatives such as the Louisiana Literacy Initiative and the Louisiana Early Childhood Network. These programs aim to support literacy development among students and families, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the state has established the Louisiana Early Learning and Development Standards, which focuses on promoting early literacy development among young children in the state.
Louisiana Student Score Gaps:
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This represents no significant change from the state’s 2019 average score.
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In 2022, Black students had an average score that was 29 points lower than that of White students. This performance gap was narrower than that in 1998 (38 points).
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In 2022, Hispanic students had an average score that was 16 points lower than that of White students. Data was not reported for Hispanic students in 1998, because reporting standards were not met.
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In 2022, male students in Louisiana had an average score that was lower than that of female students by 9 points.
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In 2022, students who were eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) had an average score that was 30 points lower than that for students who were not eligible. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (32 points).
Information from the NAEP website for 2022 4th grade reading scores.
LA EVIDENCE-BASED CHAMPIONS
LA EVIDENCE-BASED ORGANIZATIONS
These organizations are committed to promoting evidence-based reading practices, providing professional development opportunities for educators, and supporting students in developing strong reading skills.
Louisiana Department of Education
https://www.louisianabelieves.com/
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Louisiana Reading Association
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The Reading League - Louisiana
https://la.thereadingleague.org
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The International Dyslexia Association - Louisiana Branch